Hot Weather Taking Toll on Vehicles: CAA

With the summer heat not forecast to release its grip on Winnipeg any time soon, CAA Manitoba is reminding motorists that the hot temperatures can affect vehicles too.

Spokesperson Liz Peters says that calls for emergency road services were up 35% on Tuesday, and CAA expects that trend to continue over the next few days.

“When the temperature spikes, CAA always sees a jump in our calls for help,” Peters said, noting overheated motors, defective batteries and lock outs are the most common summer service calls. “With winter a distant memory and the summer in full swing, it’s easy to forget the heat takes a toll on your vehicle, too.”

Peters says not to let your engine overheat, check battery life and not to leave your vehicle running unattended.

“Just like warming up your car in the winter, people tend to leave their car running with the air conditioning on so it’s cool when they get in. Not only is it bad for the environment and your fuel consumption, but it’s when the most lock outs happen, too.”

Environment Canada is calling for a high of 31°C today, with temperatures remaining in the high 20’s until the weekend.